Charles Barkley has established himself as one of the best sports analysts after his successful basketball career. The Phoenix Suns legend and his hilarious antics on Inside the NBA on TNT are loved by fans around the world. However, Chuck is not just about his funny comments and playfulness. The Hall of Famer has a reputation for speaking his mind even if it has sometimes landed him hot waters. This quality of Barkley has inspired another popular athlete turned analyst.

Sir Charles has always tried to give his honest takes as an analyst. However, this does come with consequences.

Charles Barkley’s influence on an NFL analyst’s approach

Barkley has made comments that don’t always sit well with NBA stars. Notably, 2014 NBA MVP Kevin Durant did not take Chuck’s criticism lightly. Charles, in particular, was not impressed with Durant joining the Golden State Warriors. He did not give KD credit for the two championships and claimed he was a “bus rider” because it was Stephen Curry‘s team. However, the Slim Reaper won the Finals MVP award on both occasions. So he called out the 1993 NBA MVP on social media.

Despite the ugly side of speaking one’s mind, former defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, Marcus Spears, has bought in. The 40-year-old revealed during a podcast appearance that Michael Strahan and Barkley are a huge influence on how he handles his role.

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According to a report from Barrett Sports Media, “Strahan was a big influence because of how he expanded and how he was able to do multiple things,” Spears said. “But it’s a conglomeration of a lot of people that I admire.”

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“I would say Chuck is probably the closest, because Chuck don’t give a damn and I don’t either,” he added. Spears also said that he won’t be perfect but he will be honest and never beat around the bush.

Kevin Durant called out Charles Barkley

Charles Barkley also criticized Kevin Durant for teaming up with Kyrie Irving and James Harden.

The trio formed a super team in Brooklyn in an attempt to win it all. Durant was once again not happy with the comments from Sir Charles. Interestingly, KD decided to remind the world about Barkley’s attempt at forming a super team with the Houston Rockets.

Notably, he joined forces with NBA legends like Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, and Scottie Pippen. However, Barkley and the Rockets were not able to clinch the title, and he retired without a ring. Very much like the Nets superteam.

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